Franciscans Gather in Washington, D.C. for Prayer and Conversation

Conventual Franciscan Friar is an Invited Speaker at the Annual Catholic Charismatic Convention

Written by Conventual Franciscans on 30 September 2011. Posted in Home

Peace and all Good! The Conventual Franciscans are one of the three branches of the First Order of St. Francis. The word Conventual is derived from the Latin convenire, “to come together”; hence we live together in “convents” or friaries. Our Order is spread throughout the world, and includes about 4500 priests and brothers who are all commonly called Friars. There are five provinces in North America, and a jurisdiction in the UK and Ireland. We wear a black or gray habit with a simple three-knotted cord representing our Vows of Poverty, Chastity, and Obedience. The Spiritual Center of the Order is in Assisi, Italy, where our Friars care for the Basilica of St. Francis, which includes his tomb. In addition, the Conventuals are the Vatican confessors at St. Peter’s Basilica. In Christ’s name, we continue the ministry of healing so fundamental to the understanding of Saint Francis.

Take the next step in your discernment, contact one of our vocation directors.

To learn about the journey men undertake to become Conventual Franciscan Friars, please visit our Becoming a Franciscan webpage.